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Smoke Avoidance Tips

Smoke is harmful. Smoke comes from many sources. But no matter the source, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure.

The number one recommended step that applies to all types of smoke is avoidance. If you can keep it out of your home or stay away from environments with smoke, you will be much safer and healthier in the long term.

Avoiding Cigarette Smoke

Cigarette smoke is the most common form of Smoke pollution you are likely to encounter. Whether family members are smoking in the home or nearby, use these tips to reduce your exposure.

Use a high-efficiency (HEPA) air purifier and filter designed specifically for the removal of smoke

Urge family members to smoke outdoors rather than indoors, or stop smoking if possible

Open windows or increase ventilation if smoking is occurring indoors

Keep children away from social occasions where smoking may occur

Do not use babysitters that smoke, even if outdoors

Avoiding Wildfire Smoke Pollution

Wildfires produce a lot of air pollution in the form of ash and gasses. This pollution can be both irritating and harmful. Use the following tips to reduce your exposure to wildfire smoke pollution:

Pay attention to local air quality reports

Close doors and windows. Tape or seal drafty windows

Keep indoor air clean by running an air purifier

Refrain from outdoor exercise if particle pollution is high, or visible

A standard painter’s masks or dust masks WILL NOT protect your lungs from fine particles. Use an “N95” rated mask at minimum.

Reducing smoke exposure with an air purifier

In both instances above, an air purifier is recommended to reduce exposure to smoke, and to adsorb odors and chemicals from smoke.